When is chronic pain linked with medical malpractice?

When you are experiencing chronic pain, it is likely that your first thought is to visit your doctor's office or go to the emergency room. Most people expect that they will then receive adequate treatment that will both address the root of the condition and relieve, at least somewhat, the pain associated with it.

Unfortunately, some patients in the state of Illinois fail to be relieved of their suffering even after they have been treated by a medical professional. No one should have to suffer chronic pain when there are appropriate medical treatments available. In addition, chronic pain can affect a person's life significantly, especially when it is endured for a prolonged period of time.

If you have been unnecessarily suffering due to chronic pain, you may be able to make a medical malpractice claim against the medical provider in question. It is important that you take the time to understand the law before resorting to this action.

What are the responsibilities of medical professionals in Illinois regarding pain management?

Physicians in Illinois have the legal duty to relieve suffering when it is possible to do so. Data over the past 30 years has, unfortunately, shown that many different types of pain have been under-treated in the United States. If you can show that there were instances when your pain was not relieved adequately and you suffered as a result, you may be able to hold your medical provider legally responsible.

What damages can be suffered as a result of negligent pain management?

Obviously, negligent pain management can result in excruciating pain for patients when it is not necessary for them to feel this way. Chronic pain over a long period of time can also lead to a decreased quality of life, and is linked to the occurrence of mental illnesses such as depression. Negligent pain management can also prevent people from working, and can lead to actual monetary damages in the form of lost wages.

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Cook, Bartholomew, Shevlin & Cook, LLP is located in Belleville, Illinois, and serves clients throughout St. Clair County, Madison County, Monroe County, Jefferson County, Effingham County, Pike County, Peoria County, Randolph County, Washington County, Marion County, Sangamon County, Jackson County, Williamson County, Saline County and St. Louis County, including Columbia, East St. Louis, Fairview Heights, O'Fallon, Collinsville, Alton, Edwardsville, Marion, Mount Vernon, Salem, Carbondale, Springfield, Litchfield, St. Louis, Granite City and Harrisburg.